Baxter State Park in Maine Introduces Warning System After Hiker Tragedy

Mount Katahdin at Baxter State Park in Maine represents a lot of what people visit Vacationland for. The mountain is fit for hikers both expert and novice, it offers unmatched views from several different vantage points and it's situated in a place that doesn't feel built up.

While all of that is an attraction for many outdoor enthusiasts, the people of the state of Maine want to make sure that every visitor that traverses up the mountain manages to come back down as well.

Baxter State Park in Maine Introduces a New Weather Class System Guide For Hikers

Following the terrible tragedy on Mount Katahdin recently, Baxter State Park has decided to reintroduce a weather warning system for visitors and hikers so they can be better informed about what to expect if they're planning on venturing out for a hike.

The weather warning system is broken down into tiers that are given both numbers and associated colors for potential hikers to better understand. Those weather warnings are updated with the best available information in hopes that everyone remains safe and plans their hikes accordingly.

Baxter State Park's Weather Class System Has 4 Tiers With Associated Colors

As part of their new above-the-treeline weather warning system, Baxter State Park will inform hikers with a new tiered system that will adorn a number and color.

CLASS 1: GREEN

This will be given to days in which the forecast is expected to be excellent with warm temperatures and little to no expected precipitation.

CLASS 2: YELLOW

This second tier means that there is likely clouds in the forecast with possibility for precipitation, that the temperatures are expected to be mild but could cool and that wind gusts of substance are possible.

CLASS 3: ORANGE

This third tier is when weather conditions are expected to be cloudy with precipitation likely, the temperatures will range from cool to cold and winds are expected to be moderate to strong. If you're a novice hiker, this should be your signal to turn around.

CLASS 4: RED

This fourth tier is the most hazardous designation and it is strongly advised that any hiker stay below the treeline due to cold temperatures that could cause freezing, strong winds, clouds and precipitation and other factors that could lead to extreme danger.

Visitors to Baxter State Park will see these signs posted at ranger stations throughout the park.